This is the first of a two part Faith Writers' exclusive article. You write because you feel God has given you a message. You choose your plot, characters and setting. You decide to find a publisher, self-publish or co-publish your finished book. Finally you need to consider how to use your book to build your platform or establish your brand.

It is a message and a medium that is greater than you or your book. Your book is also a plank in your platform and an icon in your brand. Upon writing and publishing a Christian historical fiction book, I would like to share my personal experiences in order to give the reader and potential writer a glimpse into the process. What are the trials, pitfalls, and spiritual battles? What are the accomplishments, victories and triumphs?

If you are writing a book to glorify God and tell others about His love, whether you call it a “Christian book” or not - pray. Ask God to inspire and empower you to write the book. Pray to find guidance in publishing and marketing the book and in establishing your platform. Pray that God gives the increase and allows the book to reach the intended audience. Finally, pray for blessings and spiritual protection for each reader. Writing coaches and marketing consultants advise the writer to go through a specific process before extending the call to action.

You are probably reading this because you feel you are already prompted to take action. You might just be wondering what to do with it. If you are motivated by an inner yearning and leading that is beyond logical explanation, you are probably right. “Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others that He has redeemed you from your enemies.” (Psalm 107: 2, NLT)

If God gives you a message, He also gives you a medium of expression. He wants you to grow in the process. If He gives you a message and a mode of expression, He is also willing to support you in the effort through resources, inspiration and empowerment. “For the eyes of the Lord move to and fro throughout the land that he may strongly support those whose hearts are completely His.” (II Chronicles: 16-9, NASB)

I am not an expert, but I have walked the path, maybe a step ahead of you in some phases and possibly behind you in others. This is not a nuts and bolts “How To” account of self-publishing a Christian book. There are plenty of technical instructional guides available for that. I am simply relaying the story of the process I encountered and the insights I obtained so far. I am still in the process myself. “Let us consider how to motivate one another to love and good works.” (Hebrews 10:24 NLT)

Just like your story, in making decisions regarding plot, setting, characters and style, you have options to consider in publishing and marketing. Upon writing and publishing a Christian historical fiction book, I would like to share my personal experiences in order to give the reader and potential writer a glimpse into the process. What are the trials, pitfalls, and spiritual battles? What are the accomplishments, victories and triumphs?

Jerry is a retired teacher who loves to work in his wood, metal and leather shops. He has released Woodcutter’s Revival, historical fiction novel this autumn. You can find Revived: Story of Publishing a Christian Novel on Kindle at Amazon.com.